NEWS
  • Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando || Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society || Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support. ||. BVI Returns to OECS Swimming Championships, Secures Silver Medal. ||. Government Offices To Open at 11 am To Allow For Flood Cleanup And Inspections. || ADVERTISEMENT: Need a banner in a hurry? Look no further than JAHPHIX DESIGNS. Our high-quality banners can be delivered to you in 24 hours or less. Tel: (284) 340-1995 or email us at mail@jahphix.com ||
Connect with us

Local News

Social Development Department Vows Confidential, Equitable Public Assistance Delivery

Published

on

In a recent Table Talks Session focusing on Accessing Public Assistance, Miss Tasha Bertie, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development, highlighted the department’s dedication to maintaining confidentiality and fairness in delivering public assistance to individuals across the Virgin Islands.

Miss Bertie emphasised the successful transition to a streamlined system under the Social Development Department, promoting transparency and equity in the distribution of public assistance grants.

“We are pleased with the transition’s outcomes. While the previous system served its purpose, the current approach ensures that all grants are correctly channelled and managed, fostering equity across the board,” stated Miss Bertie.

Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett, Chief Social Development Officer, noted that the transition enabled the department to shift from manual to digital record-keeping, improving efficiency and reducing waiting times for assistance while facilitating accurate reporting to the ministry.

“The digital system has significantly streamlined our processes and reporting obligations to the ministry, making assistance more accessible to those in need,” Mrs. Malone-Frett remarked.

Miss Laurel Freeman, Programme Director for Children and Family Support Services, highlighted the department’s stringent measures to safeguard the confidentiality of individuals seeking assistance.

“Applications are identified solely by NHI numbers, ensuring the anonymity of applicants. In the absence of an NHI number, alternative identifiers such as Social Security numbers, passports, birth certificates, or driver’s licences are utilised to protect applicants’ identities,” explained Miss Freeman.

Since the adoption of the Commission of Inquiry’s recommendations in 2022, the Ministry of Health and Social Development has intensified efforts to enhance public assistance services in the Virgin Islands.

The Social Development Department’s commitment to confidentiality and equity reflects the government’s broader initiatives to improve governance, enhance public service delivery, and ensure justice for all residents of the Virgin Islands.

By prioritising inclusion, enforcement, safety, communication, and accountability, the government aims to instill greater confidence in its ability to provide accessible and secure services, thus fulfilling its mandate to serve the people of the Virgin Islands effectively.

Education

Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando

Published

on

By

Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.

The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.

“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”

The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.

Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.

For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.

Continue Reading

Crime/Police

Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands

Published

on

By

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.

The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.

“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.

While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.

Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.

Continue Reading

Local News

Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society

Published

on

By

In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.

Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.

The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.

This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.

Continue Reading

Trending